Ahmedabad Zoo Welcomes Tigers and Blackbucks from Gwalior in Animal Exchange Program

The Kankaria Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden in Ahmedabad has received a pair of tigers and five pairs of blackbucks from Gwalior’s Gandhi Prani Udyan as part of a recent animal exchange initiative. In return, Ahmedabad Zoo sent a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals to Gwalior. This exchange, approved by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) on December 17, 2024, aims to foster biodiversity conservation and support breeding programs.

New Additions at Ahmedabad Zoo
The tigers, one male and one female, along with ten blackbucks, were transported from Gwalior to Ahmedabad on February 17 in three specialized vehicles. Upon arrival, the animals were welcomed by Zoo Superintendent Dr. Sharv Shah and his team. According to Jayesh Trivedi, Chairman of the Recreational, Cultural, and Heritage Committee, the animals underwent a one-month quarantine period, following CZA guidelines, to ensure their health and acclimatization. Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha Jain was among the first visitors to view the new additions.

Animals Sent to Gwalior Zoo
In exchange, Ahmedabad Zoo transferred a selection of animals to Gwalior on February 10, including:

• 6 Rosy Pelicans (3 males, 3 females)
• 6 Indian Porcupines (3 males, 3 females)
• 10 Indian Star Tortoises (5 males, 5 females)
• 2 Golden Pheasants (1 male, 1 female)
• 10 Spoonbills (5 males, 5 females)

The zoo management highlighted that these animals were chosen for relocation due to the high birth rates of these species at Ahmedabad Zoo, ensuring sustainable population management.

Growing Animal Population at Kankaria Zoo
With the latest arrivals, the zoo’s diverse animal population has expanded to include over 2,100 animals. The current residents now include:

• 1 lion and 2 lionesses
• 1 white tigress and 5 tigers (1 male, 4 females)
• 9 leopards (4 males, 5 females)
• 1 bear
• 1 elephant
• 2 hippopotamuses
• 10 jackals
• Various species of birds and reptiles

The exchange program reflects the commitment of both zoos to species conservation and enhancing visitor experiences through diverse exhibits.